1. You’ve been on not one but TWO tours this year – Carmolina’s and Charliee’s. What was it like jumping between those worlds and connecting with such different audiences?
It was such an exciting experience playing in different cities for the first time and getting to hear all the different genres of music. I loved being involved in both tours—they’re both incredibly talented musicians. I feel very grateful and honoured to have been a part of it.
2. You were named Tune Fountain’s Artist of the Year — huge congrats! And you’re also nominated for the UK Influencer Awards. How does it feel getting recognition both as an artist and a public figure?
Thank you so much! It means a lot to me to be positively recognised in both areas. I put a lot of work into my artistry and my online presence. I really want to use my platform to help others and educate through my music and social media. I’m passionate about spreading awareness around mental health.
3. Rumour has it there’s a new single on the horizon… any gossip you can spill for us? Title? Vibe? Collabs?
Yes, there is indeed a new single coming soon! The vibe is dark pop—if you like artists like Billie Eilish, Madison Beer, or Olivia Rodrigo, then you’ll definitely love this record. It also draws inspiration from ’80s post-punk and new wave. It’s produced by the amazing Gulliver and executive produced by Royzy Rothschild, Shout out to Hikstr on the mix. The song is about fighting anxiety—how it can make us feel and how hard it is to control, understand, and communicate. I’ve struggled with it most of my life, especially when I was younger. The song is about realising you have a purpose and not letting fear stop you.
4. You supported Kristian Rogerson at the I Won’t Miss You launch party — what was that experience like, sharing the stage during such a big moment for him?
I did! It was such an honour to support him on that night. I also made a surprise appearance during his set for our duet of “Stick Season”! We’ve performed that duet a few times at different gigs and it always goes down well—people love it, and it’s a lot of fun to perform. I’m really proud of Kristian. He’s a good friend of mine, and I’ve seen him grow so much as an artist this past year. I encourage everyone to check out his new single—it’s fire!
5. Royzy Rothschild is your manager — what’s that partnership like, and how has he helped shape your career so far?
Royzy Rothschild is the best. I first met him when I took part in the Big Condo Academy artist development course for women in music, which was funded by the Eleanor Rathbone charity. After completing the course, he brought me on as an intern at Big Condo Records, and months later—after seeing me grow under his mentorship—he signed me as an artist. We work on everything together, great manager and mentor.
6. You’ve really been on the rise this past year. When did you feel that first real shift — that moment when you knew everything was starting to happen?
I’d say it was during the first studio session for my upcoming single. That’s when my focus shifted from just writing the song to thinking about the whole campaign—promotion, visuals, everything. Before that, I was only focused on getting the writing finished. Since then, we’ve been planning the music video, photoshoot, and more. I’ve also noticed my community growing a lot over the past few months—I appreciate every single one of them!
7. Your online presence is strong, but still feels really authentic. How do you keep things real while growing a brand in the public eye?
Thank you! I think staying real and honest is so important—for your audience and for yourself. I don’t have perfect skin or constant self-confidence, and I don’t want to pretend I do. These things aren’t anything to be ashamed of. It’s about accepting yourself, being who you are, and loving yourself for it.
8. Who’s on your dream collab list right now — producers, artists, even creatives from outside the music world?
I’d love to work with Finneas—I think his songwriting and production are incredible. I’m also really into the band SkyeChristy, and would love to collaborate with them. And of course, Lana Del Rey—her songwriting is just beautiful.
9. What inspires your writing lately? Are there certain themes or sounds you keep coming back to?
Definitely reflecting on past experiences. There are some things I’ve tried to write about for years but could never quite find the right words—until now. Being in a different place emotionally has given me a new, more accepting perspective. I’m also judging my writing less and just letting it flow naturally. I keep coming back to dark pop and dream pop sounds. I love the vibe that Madison Beer and Lana Del Rey create—dark, emotional, surreal, and angelic. I’m really inspired by Marina and SkyeChristy too. I like music that feels like a dream.
10. 2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for you. What can we expect next — more music, maybe a headline show, or something totally unexpected?
There’s so much to look forward to this year. My first-ever single is finally coming out—it’s something I’ve been working on for so long. We’ll also be hosting a single release party, which will be announced in the coming months. I’ll be performing the song live that night and celebrating with everyone! That’s all I can say for now—but follow me to stay updated! I’m @emilieculshaw on all social media and streaming platforms. Thank you for this wonderful interview!
Interview by Brian Farr
